People often ask for examples of benefits from implementing ISO 9001-compliant quality management systems (QMS). Such examples are often difficult to provide, at least in terms of immediate results. The reason is that the effects of ISO 9001 and its automotive counterpart ISO/TS 16949 are largely preventive, which means they are most conspicuous through their absence.

An ancient Chinese story about three doctors is highly instructive. Three brothers were doctors. The youngest used heroic methods to cure serious illnesses—much like manufacturing professionals who fix serious production and quality problems. His name was known throughout the realm. The middle brother cured illnesses in their early stages, so his name was not known beyond his village. The eldest brother prevented the diseases. Nobody knew his name.

This also is true of ISO 9001: When it is in place and functioning properly, the organization takes it for granted and it soon becomes unnoticeable.

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